The country’s largest carmaker Maruti Suzuki has announced plans to localise battery production and other key electric vehicle components over the coming years. The strategy is aimed at building a stronger and more self reliant EV ecosystem in India, according to Partho Banerjee, Senior Executive Officer Marketing and Sales at Maruti Suzuki India.
Maruti Suzuki is preparing to launch its first electric vehicle, the e VITARA, in the domestic market next year. At present, the company imports batteries from China based BYD, but a phased localisation roadmap has been planned for the future. Banerjee said building consumer confidence remains critical, as many buyers are still unsure about using electric cars as their primary vehicles due to concerns around driving range and the availability of public charging infrastructure.
Looking ahead, Maruti Suzuki plans to have 5 electric vehicle models in its overall portfolio by FY30. Banerjee expects the Indian automobile industry to grow to around 5.5 to 6 million units, with EV penetration reaching about 13 to 15 percent. However, he also pointed out that early indicators after GST 2.0 suggest a possible dip in EV penetration.
Key challenges slowing adoption include limited driving range, inadequate public charging facilities, after sales service concerns, and uncertainty around resale value. To address these issues, Maruti Suzuki plans to establish 1,500 EV ready workshops across 1,100 cities. The company has already set up 2,000 charging points and plans to roll out assured buyback and subscription schemes for its electric vehicles.
Despite slower growth in EVs compared to internal combustion engine vehicles, Banerjee said original equipment manufacturers must focus on product quality, strong after sales support, and ecosystem development to win customer trust.
On the global front, Maruti Suzuki has already started exporting the e VITARA, with 10,000 units shipped to 26 international markets. The company also plans to introduce multiple electric models across different body styles in the future.
As part of its long term vision, Maruti Suzuki aims to set up around 100,000 charging stations by 2030 through partnerships with dealer networks and charging point operators, reinforcing its ambition to play a leading role in India’s electric mobility journey.
Also read: Viksit Workforce for a Viksit Bharat
Do Follow: The Mainstream formerly known as CIO News LinkedIn Account | The Mainstream formerly known as CIO News Facebook | The Mainstream formerly known as CIO News Youtube | The Mainstream formerly known as CIO News Twitter
About us:
The Mainstream is a premier platform delivering the latest updates and informed perspectives across the technology business and cyber landscape. Built on research-driven, thought leadership and original intellectual property, The Mainstream also curates summits & conferences that convene decision makers to explore how technology reshapes industries and leadership. With a growing presence in India and globally across the Middle East, Africa, ASEAN, the USA, the UK and Australia, The Mainstream carries a vision to bring the latest happenings and insights to 8.2 billion people and to place technology at the centre of conversation for leaders navigating the future.
